MARLTON, N.J. (Burlington County) — Gov. Mikie Sherrill on Wednesday highlighted her administration’s efforts to address youth mental health and online safety during a visit to Cherokee High School.
Joined by lawmakers, education leaders and parent advocates, Sherrill outlined steps the state is taking to respond to rising concerns about children’s mental health and the impact of social media.
“Across the nation, we are facing a stark reality – our kids are struggling with an unprecedented mental health crisis, and social media is playing a big part. As a mom of four, I can tell you with certainty that our country is failing our children when it comes to protecting them online,” said Governor Sherrill. “We have a responsibility to do better. My Administration is committed to counteracting the harms of social media and supporting youth mental health, and I am proud to put forward a plan that reflects these values.”
On her first day in office, Sherrill signed an executive order establishing the Office of Youth Online Mental Health Safety within the Department of Health. The office is tasked with coordinating statewide efforts and directing agencies to prioritize children’s mental health in relation to technology use.
Her proposed fiscal year 2027 budget includes $125,000 to support the office, along with $500,000 to establish a Social Media Research Center focused on studying the relationship between digital technology and youth mental health.
Assemblywoman Andrea Katz emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue.
“As a mom of three teenagers, I have a front-row seat to just how central social media is to young people’s lives. It plays a role in all of our lives, and it’s not going anywhere, but we also know the consequences of spending too much time online. Families are feeling those impacts every day: increased anxiety, depression, and eating disorders; disrupted sleep; and harmful content reaching kids far too easily,” said Assemblywoman Andrea Katz. “Now is the time to prioritize the mental health of New Jersey’s youth. Now is the time to make online spaces safer for minors in an ever-changing digital landscape. Now is the time to warn users about real mental health risks and equip families and educators with the knowledge they need to keep minors safe online. I look forward to working with Governor Sherrill’s administration to champion our kids and put their mental health first.”
Jacqueline Gibbs, president of the New Jersey Parent Teacher Association, also voiced support for the initiative.
“As President of the New Jersey PTA, I applaud Governor Sherrill for making student mental health and children’s online safety a priority from day one. This action sends a strong message that the well-being of our children and families matter, and NJPTA stands ready to support these efforts,” said Jacqueline Gibbs, President of the New Jersey Parent Teacher Association (NJPTA). “We look forward to working alongside the Governor, the Legislature, and the Department of Health to make New Jersey a model for keeping every child safe – online and in school.”
Local education leaders said schools are also continuing to prioritize student well-being.
“The core of our mission, ensuring safety and advancing student achievement, cannot be fully realized unless students feel safe. That is why mental health has been a sustained priority for us over several years. We are proud to offer a range of comprehensive programs and supports designed to promote and protect the mental well-being of our students,” said Matt Webb, Lenape Regional High School District Superintendent. “As educators, we believe in lifelong learning, and that philosophy extends to mental health and safety, you are never truly finished. Just as physical health requires consistent care, one healthy choice today does not sustain you for the future. In the same way, mental health demands ongoing attention, maintenance, and a continued commitment to meaningful supports.”
